I watched both the cello and piano sections of the Tchaikovsky Competition from Russia this year. It was interesting listening to a lot of excellent musicians and learning how the preferences of the judges were different from my own. I did read a lot of comments, and there was discussion of how, in the cello competition, if you weren’t there there were things you missed including volume of the music and projection (just not noticeable listening to the performances through the microphone). It did seem as if the judges liked modern Russian pieces a lot!
In the piano competition I thought George Li should have placed even higher. His expression and touch on the keys was amazing.
I did notice how few female entrants there were and how those that did compete did not do well in the competition. Here in the eastern US cello is very popular and there are lots and lots of female cellists. The cello competition (and the others as well) seemed very male centered. I did wonder about that.
The performances are available streaming on Medici TV for the next four years. Supposed this was one of the most watched musical events all over the world in history. Great music for sure!
Cello With Love 